The Bell at Sea The dangerous islet called the Bell Rock [the Inchcape Rock], on the coast of Forfarshire used formerly to be marked only by a bell, which was so placed as to be swung by the motion of the waves, when the tide rose above the rock. A lighthouse has since been erected there. WHEN the tide’s billowy swell Had reached its height, Then tolled the rock’s lone bell Sternly by night. Far over cliff and surge Swept the deep sound, Making each wild wind’s dirge Still more profound. Yet that funereal tone The sailor blessed, Steering through darkness on With fearless breast. E’en so may we, that float On life’s wide sea, Welcome each warning note, Stern though it be! |
English Poetry - http://eng-poetry.ru/english/index.php. E-mail eng-poetry.ru@yandex.ru |